Located near the waterfront next to Avarua (Rarotonga's main township), the Punanga Nui Market is a 'must do' for visitors for its unique Cook Islands' atmosphere.
Fresh fruit, veggies and fish, island food, coffee, pastries, smoothies, live and recorded island music, hand-made ukuleles, clothing, handicrafts, black pearls, jewellery, massage, art works, second-hand books, souvenirs and tivaevae, and more!
Whilst the market - on a much smaller scale - is open Monday to Friday, Saturday is the main market day with most stalls, shops and huts occupied with vendors. And, there is a bonus on Saturdays with a free 'cultural' show on stage, mid morning!
Punanga Nui Market opens 8.00am–12.00pm on Saturdays.
T: +682 28370
From the organisers:
Parking is available at both ends of the market (Western Carpark + Terevete East). ATM Machines: You’ll find the BSP ATM next to the PNM Office near the Western Carpark, and the BCI ATM at the entrance of Te Tāpora Kai. If you’re queuing for the BSP machine, please stay within the barriers and queue off the road, as this area is the main exit for the Western Carpark. Public Restrooms. Free Water Stations are also available — stay hydrated! Although we’ve introduced more BBQ tables for you to sit and enjoy your meals, we strongly encourage you to bring an umbrella, a hat, sunblock, and a water bottle for quick refills during your visit. We never know when Mother Nature will decide to turn up the heat or bless us with some showers!At this stage, vendors aren’t fully zoned, so you’ll find a little bit of everything as you wander. However: Food vendors who cook onsite (under pop-up tents) can mostly be found near the Western Carpark. Fresh produce and craft vendors are trading inside Te Tāpora Kai.
